Runaway Orbs Cause Chaos in London

Giant balls that broke away from art installation in high winds made for a surreal scene
By Jenn Gidman,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 3, 2022 12:39 PM CDT

When Morrissey sang about "panic on the streets of London," we imagine he likely wasn't envisioning giant orbs bouncing down the thoroughfares, wreaking havoc on traffic. But that's exactly what happened earlier this week, when a pair of enormous balls broke free of an art installation during high winds and began careening down Tottenham Court Road, in the central part of the British capital, reports the Telegraph.

In video from that outlet, which originated on TikTok, the first ball can be seen rolling down the street, slamming into a streetlight and losing its silver covering to reveal a glowing white sphere underneath. Soon, the second one rounds a corner and speeds down the street as well. Cars, a bus, and a person on a bicycle can all be seen trying to stay out of the balls' path.

Social media had a good time with the surprise event, with some comparing it to a disaster flick, while one person called it akin to a "giant game of pinball," per Sky News. The outlet reports there were no apparent injuries, and that the rogue orbs were brought under control soon after. (More strange stuff stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X